Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road Launches 24×7 Stroke Helpline for Immediate Care

Stroke, the second most common cause of death worldwide after heart attacks, poses a significant threat in India, with around 1.2 million cases annually.

Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, has introduced a 24×7 stroke helpline (8108181081) to ensure swift intervention for stroke patients across North Mumbai.

The new 24×7 helpline aims to provide immediate guidance for stroke patients, addressing a gap in quick access to specialized stroke care in North Mumbai.

Further, the hospital staff will guide family members and patients through essential steps for immediate care, helping navigate the critical hours post-stroke onset.

The hospital is equipped with a full-time interventional neurologist, in-house CT and MRI facilities, and a neuro-intensive care unit, all designed to streamline critical care for stroke patients.

The hospital offers IV thrombolysis within a critical 4.5-hour window and mechanical thrombectomy, extending the treatment window to 24 hours. This approach aims to reduce the severity of stroke impact and support patient recovery.

Growing Threat of Stroke

Stroke, the second most common cause of death worldwide after heart attacks, poses a significant threat in India, with around 1.2 million cases annually.

In Southeast Asia, India holds the highest incidence, with awareness around stroke symptoms and quick response often limited.

A stroke occurs due to a disruption in blood supply to the brain, where swift medical response, especially within a 4.5-hour window, can prevent severe outcomes such as paralysis.

The urgency is due to rapid neuron loss, with 1.9 million brain cells lost every minute during a stroke. Given that the brain cannot regenerate and there are no transplant options, prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical.

Dr Pankaj Dhamija, Centre Head at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, emphasized the importance of recognizing early signs of stroke, introducing a helpful mnemonic for symptom awareness.

He said, “The mnemonic ‘BEFAST’ helps identify stroke signs quickly: B for Loss of Balance, E for sudden loss of vision in one Eye, F for Facial droop, A for Arm or leg weakness on one side, S for Speaking difficulty, and T stands for ‘Time is Brain’—acting without hesitation is crucial. Relatives should immediately call our helpline if they notice these symptoms. Our team will assess the situation and direct patients towards immediate hospital care.”

The stroke helpline is set to play a significant role in providing the North Mumbai community with essential information and assistance for stroke symptoms, supporting a timely response and reducing complications.

Dr Dhamija reiterated the helpline's role, stating, “Our team’s focus is on enabling timely assessment and treatment from the moment a stroke symptom is identified. With resources like our helpline, patients and families are supported through each step, giving them timely access to critical treatments in an emergency.”

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